We made it! 2021! Despite the first week of January being remarkably similar to the last week of December (pandemic is still here, the days are short/cold, and we’re stuck inside), it somehow feels more hopeful, doesn’t it? Maybe not. Hopefully, the turn of the calendar brings some positive mojo with it, thus beginning to turn the tides of our collective misfortune.
This week’s newsletter is a continuation of the 2020 films superlatives! Also, note that last week’s Weathering With You is now on HBO Max.
Also: My favorite seven films in 2020 // 2020 Film Superlatives I //
Most Interesting Cinematography
I haven’t seen Nomadland, but I expect that film looks gorgeous.
My Octopus Teacher: A documentary, yes, but more of a personal journey as Craig Foster captured incredible underwater footage of himself and, as the title implies, an octopus, that he built a relationship with. An octopus may be a cephalopod, but it certainly taught Foster how to be more human. Watch it on Netflix now.
The Vast of Night: This small budget sci-fi film is known for it’s razor sharp and blistering dialogue, but with a shoestring budget of $700k, the film looks great and features some incredible one-rs whose audacity belie its production budget. Find it on Amazon Prime now.
Time: Yes, another documentary. But with footage spliced from the past 25 years, Time creates a unique experience. You’re not learning about one family’s struggle with the US Criminal Justice system, you’re immersed in it; steeped in the fight and heartbreak that the Rich family has bore for a quarter century. Stream it on Amazon Prime.
Most Thrilling
Underwater: Billed as kind of a creature-feature / disaster flick, the film is a bit predictable and not very deep, but is elevated by some legit acting by Kristen Stewart and co. And it ratchets up the tension creatively with its confined and dark spaces (it’s called Underwater after all) with the best of ‘em last year. Watch it on HBO Max now.
Sputnik: What a great little find. This Russian thriller sees a cosmonaut come back from space with something more than memories. A suspenseful and well-crafted sci-fi thriller isn’t the norm for a Russian production, but a welcome delight nonetheless. Stream is on Hulu.
The Invisible Man: The reimagined Dark universe character has been updated for a more modern type of sinister behavior. Anchored by a wonderful Elisabeth Moss performance, this thriller utilizes the ol; “it’s what’s not there that’s scary” technique to incredible results. Find it on HBO Max.
Performance: Actor You Didn’t Think Could Act.
Lily Collins, Mank: You may know Lily Collins from Emily From Paris. But in David Fincher’s Oscar contender Mank, she puts in a stoic, just-right-dramatic performance as Rita Alexander, a WWII widower-to-be, administrative assistant (and emotional rock) to Herman J Mankiewicz. An underrated performance in an over-buzzed about film. Find it on Netflix.
Millie Bobby Brown, Enola Holmes: Oh, she of Stranger Things fame, and the little seen (and ill fated) Godzilla sequel. But in her first starring vehicle, the teen actor walks a fine line between confident, playful, not too hammy, and dramatic when needed in the franchise starter. A worthwhile watch for the whole family. Watch on Netflix.
Sascha Baron Cohen, Trial of the Chicago 7: Most know Sascha for his ridiculous Borat movies (the 2nd one is good!) or his old Da Ali G Show. But in Aaron Sorkin’s Oscar baity Trial of the Chicago 7, he plays a hippie activist. Using his comedic timing, blasé attitude, and underrated dramatic chops he becomes an audience favorite and unexpected MVP in a film full of heavy hitters. Find it on Netflix.
The Most ‘What Did I Just Watch?’ Films
I’m Thinking of Ending Things: I liked it. But the metaphysical and literal romp through a person’s mind, life, and psyche might not be for everyone. The time bending, plot might be great for Charlie Kaufman fans, but many could be turned off. But capital G Great performances from Jessie Buckley and Jessie Plemons are worth the admission (which is free because it’s on Netflix).
The Platform: This Spanish thriller is not very subtle. Set in a mysterious prison where food descends from the top floor, stopping for a minute on each. Depravity, human disgust and social commentary are all on display. But if you can stomach the core conceit, you’ll be in for quite the ride. Watch it on Netflix.
Tenet: Christopher Nolan’s latest brain buster is certainly maximum Christopher Nolan: Timeline bending, heists, great suits, and an all-star cast. However, it wasn’t a universal hit, as the convolution of the plot and weird audio mix overshadowed the action and performances quite a bit. If you’re inclined, rent on Amazon ($6.99).
Shoutout Letterboxd for helping the film community keep track of their obsession.
For last week’s recommendations, check it out here.